Satisfies Cultural Literacy requirement:
No

Satisfies General Education requirement:
Yes

Grading options:
A-F (default), P-NP, audit

Prerequisites

Course Description

Examines modern human cultures. Analyzes a variety of ethnographic examples from various world societies to understand the diverse aspects of language, technology, economy, social structure, governance, religion, world views and expressive aspects of life. Prerequisites: WR 115, RD 115 and MTH 20 or equivalent placement test scores. Audit available.

Intended Outcomes

Master basic concepts in cultural anthropology in order to prepare for more advanced course work.

Reflect on how personal and social values are shaped by culture.

Examine the role ethnocentrism plays in promoting cultural misunderstanding and intolerance at the local and global level.

Outcome Assessment Strategies

Assessment strategies may include any of the following:

Exams (in class or take home)

Quizzes

Student presentations

Experiential exercises

Term papers

Short papers or reports

Course Content (Themes, Concepts, Issues and Skills)

Themes:

Cross cultural research

Ethnocentrism

Enculturation

Issues:

Cultural relativism

Ethnocentrism

Concepts:

Cultural adaptation

Cultural institutions

World view

Kinship

Marriage

Politics

Economics

Technology

Skills:

Read and write at the college level

Participate in focus group exercises

Understand the concept of culture

Recognize ethnocentrism

Department Notes

This course will focus on at least two different cultures. Students are expected to read and write at the college level.